University of Plymouth

About University of Plymouth

At a Glance

University of Plymouth Founded in 1862, the Plymouth School of Navigation holds the prestigious title of being the oldest maritime school in the country, tracing its roots back to the heart of the city's rich seafaring history. Over the years, this institution evolved into the esteemed Plymouth College of Technology, garnering significant recognition when it was renamed the School of Navigation in 1962. This transition paved the way for further advancements, leading to the grant of polytechnic status in 1970, marking a significant milestone in its trajectory towards excellence in higher education.

The journey of growth and acclaim continued for the institution, culminating in the establishment of the University of Plymouth in 1992. This transformative moment solidified its position as a leading center of academic brilliance, a beacon of knowledge and innovation in the southwest. Notably, the university has forged strong partnerships with various educational and research institutions in the region, fostering a collaborative environment for academic advancement and holistic development.

With an emphasis on practical learning and real-world experience, the University of Plymouth has become renowned for its comprehensive placement and work-based learning programs, benefiting over 12,000 students annually. The dedication to providing a well-rounded education is evidenced by the expansion of several departments, such as the library and student union, and the establishment of the faculties of Health and Education and Society, along with the esteemed Marine Science department, further solidifying its reputation as a powerhouse of multidisciplinary education.

Acknowledged for its academic prowess and commitment to student satisfaction, the University of Plymouth has earned significant accolades and global recognition. Notably, its consistent high rankings in disciplines such as Computer Science, Civil Engineering, Geography, Environmental Science, and Art and Design underscore its commitment to excellence and innovation, contributing to its overall prominence within the national and international academic landscape.

The University of Plymouth's vibrant student union serves as a hub for student activities and community engagement, fostering a lively atmosphere where students can connect, collaborate, and engage in various social and academic initiatives. Situated within the City Center Campus, the university's prime location near the Marine Station offers students convenient access to a diverse array of educational resources, enhancing the overall learning experience and encouraging exploration within the field of marine and maritime studies.

Dedicated to nurturing future healthcare professionals, the North Plymouth campus houses the esteemed School of Medicine, offering specialized programs in dietetics, occupational therapy, operating department practice, physiotherapy, and podiatry. With a commitment to providing comprehensive education and practical training, the university empowers students to embark on meaningful careers within the healthcare sector, equipped with the necessary skills and knowledge to make a significant impact in their respective fields.

Catering to a diverse international student community, the University of Plymouth welcomes over 2,000 students from more than 100 countries, fostering a rich cultural exchange and a global learning environment. The university offers an impressive selection of on-campus accommodation, managed and maintained by the university, ensuring a secure and inclusive living space where students can thrive and engage in various collaborative activities, fostering a strong sense of community and camaraderie among its diverse student body.

Recognizing the importance of providing financial support to exceptional students, the University of Plymouth offers a range of international student scholarships, providing eligible students with the opportunity to pursue their academic aspirations and excel in their chosen fields. From the School of Psychology's International Postgraduate Platinum Scholarship to the Postgraduate Taught Student Scholarship and the Undergraduate International Student Scholarship, the university is committed to recognizing and nurturing outstanding academic talent, enabling students to pursue their educational goals with confidence and dedication.

Why choose University of Plymouth?

• Research focus:

The university emphasizes research that pushes the boundaries of knowledge, promotes practical application, and fosters innovation and entrepreneurship.

• Interdisciplinary approach:

Interdisciplinarity is a key priority, encouraging collaboration across diverse fields to tackle complex challenges and drive holistic solutions.

• Vision and community:

The university's vision and sense of community are bolstered by their top-notch services, well-maintained estate, and robust infrastructure, contributing to their high effectiveness and efficiency.

• Graduate outcomes:

Graduates of the university's programs emerge as highly capable, confident, and adaptable global citizens, prepared to become the future leaders who achieve their ambitions.

Facilities of University of Plymouth

• Ships used in the research activities.
• Coastal Marine Applied Research Field Equipment (CMAR).
• The Coastal, Ocean, and Sediment Transport Laboratory (COAST lab) focusing on the study of coastal and ocean phenomena.
• Headquarters for Marine Navigation operations.
• Remotely Operated Vehicle (ROV) marine station.
• Penlee Point Atmospheric Observatory site.
• Analytical services provided by the laboratories.

Services for International Students

• Orientation programmes and meet and greet service at Heathrow Airport for international students.
• Provision of general information about the area and British culture during the orientation.
• Introduction to the campus and its various departments during the orientation.
• Informal weekly meetings for international students with native speakers at the School of Tourism's Languages Cafe.
• Availability of undergraduate and postgraduate courses for international students at the University of Plymouth.
• A diverse international student body with over 2000 students from more than 100 countries.
• Accommodation options for international students within the university-managed residence halls, providing a safe and friendly environment.

Rankings

• Ranked 74th in the Times University Guide 2023.
• Ranked No. 1 in England for student satisfaction as per The Complete University Guide 2023.
• Recognized as the No. 1 socially inclusive university in England by The Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide 2023.
• Ranked 41st in the Guardian University Guide 2022.
• University of Plymouth submitted 78% of submissions in the REF 2021, an improvement from the 63% submitted in the corresponding 2014 REF.

Undergraduate Program:

Academic Requirement:

• At least Secondary Level: Grade 12 years of education
• OR Equivalent Degree

The following qualifications may be considered for direct entry to our undergraduate programmes:

• At least Secondary Level: Grade 12 years of education OR Equivalent Degree with grades 3.5/A- or higher, plus an approved Foundation Programme OR
• 3 UK A Levels OR
• Between 30 and 36 points in the International Baccalaureate Diploma (IB).

Language Proficiency:

University will accept the IELTS Academic (both the SELT and non-SELT) and TOEFL internet-based tests for direct admission to undergraduate and postgraduate degree programmes. One of the under-noted approved tests in English may be offered in place of GCSE English Language:

• IGCSE English Language (including Speaking and Listening/Oral test) or a recognised overseas O-level English Language
• Cambridge Proficiency (CPE)
• Cambridge Advanced (CAE)
• University of Cambridge International Examinations (CIE) GCE O-level English Language Syllabus 1119/1120 (with pass in Oral test) 1123/1125/1127/1128
• IELTS Academic Test
• TOEFL iBT (internet-Based)
• INTO English for University Study Test
• INTO English Language Assessment (IELA)
• Pearson Test of English (PTE) Academic
• HKDSE - Hong Kong Diploma of Secondary Education
• Trinity ISE III or IV Integrated Skills in English Examinations (with at least a Pass in all test components)

IELTS Requirements: IELTS - Academic (UKVI Approved)* OR IELTS - Academic (Other Centres) OR IELTS Indicator* (online test)

• Linguistically less demanding courses: 6.0 (with minimum of 5.5 in all four elements of the test)
• Most courses: 6.5 (with minimum of 5.5 in all four elements of the test)
• Linguistically more demanding courses: 7.0 (with minimum of 5.5 in all four elements of the test)
• Validity period: 2 years

TOEFL Requirements: TOEFL iBT* (Internet based test OR iBT Special Home Edition)

• Linguistically less demanding courses: 80 with minimum marks (Listening - 17, Reading - 18, Speaking - 20, Writing - 17)
• Most courses: 90 with minimum marks (Listening - 17, Reading - 18, Speaking - 20, Writing - 17)
• Linguistically more demanding courses: 95 with minimum marks (Listening - 17, Reading - 18, Speaking - 20, Writing - 17)
• Validity period: 2 years

More English Requirements  

More Information about International Students  

Postgraduate Program:

Academic Requirement:

• Level: Undergraduate, 3-Years Bachelor Degree OR
• Level: Undergraduate, 4-Years Bachelor Degree OR
• OR Equivalent Degree

Entry to graduate diploma or taught Masters programmes usually requires either a UK upper second-class (2:1) or a lower second-class (2:2) undergraduate degree. For most courses, your major subject or content of your Bachelor degree may also be considered. Please check our Course Finder for detailed entry requirements.

Explanation: UK Upper Second-Class Honours (2:1)

  Applicants should normally have a Masters degree from a recognised university with CGPA 3.2/4 or 60%.

  Students who have completed a 2 or 3 year Bachelor degree with good grades followed by a good Masters degree will be considered on an individual basis.

Explanation: UK Lower Second-Class Honours (2:2)

  Applicants should normally have a Masters degree from a recognised university with a CGPA 3.0/4.

  Students who have completed a 2 or 3 year Bachelor degree with good grades followed by a good Masters degree will be considered on an individual basis.

Language Proficiency:

IELTS Requirements: IELTS Academic OR IELTS Indicator

• Linguistically less demanding courses: 6.0 to 6.5 (with minimum of 6.0 in all four elements of the test)
• Most courses: 6.5 (with a minimum of 6.0 in all four elements of the test)
• Linguistically more demanding courses: 7.0 to 7.5 (with minimum of 6.5 in all four elements of the test)
• Validity period: 2 years

TOEFL Requirements: TOEFL iBT* (Internet based test OR iBT Special Home Edition)

• Linguistically less demanding courses: 90 with minimum marks (Listening - 20, Reading - 19, Speaking - 21, Writing - 20)
• Most courses: 95 with minimum marks (Listening - 20, Reading - 19, Speaking - 21, Writing - 20)
• Linguistically more demanding courses: 105 with minimum marks (Listening - 23, Reading - 21, Speaking - 22, Writing - 23)
• Validity period: 2 years

More English Requirements  

More Information about International Students